If you’re looking for a beautiful, flavor-packed meal that delivers on both ease and elegance, One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is the perfect dish to try. This recipe brings together tender, flaky salmon, creamy zesty orzo, and vibrant greens—all in one pan—making cleanup a breeze and guaranteeing the flavors meld together delightfully. The fresh lemon juice and zest wake up the dish with brightness, while Parmesan and a touch of cream give the orzo that irresistible, luscious finish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner for friends, this is a one-skillet wonder you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the charm of One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is how each simple ingredient brings something special to the table. From the richness of the salmon to the spark of lemon, everything works together in delicious harmony—so don’t skip or skimp!
- Salmon fillets: Opt for firm, fresh salmon for the best texture and flavor—skin-on or skinless works.
- Olive oil: Helps achieve that gorgeous golden sear on the salmon.
- Salt: Essential for highlighting all the other flavors; adjust to taste.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild warmth and gentle kick.
- Unsalted butter: Gives the orzo a silky, savory base and deepens the flavor.
- Garlic: Brings fragrant, mouthwatering aroma to the whole dish.
- Orzo pasta: Little grains that cook up creamy and cozy, soaking in all the flavors.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Infuses the orzo with savory depth—use whichever you have on hand.
- Heavy cream: Makes everything rich and dreamy; half-and-half can be swapped in for a lighter touch.
- Parmesan cheese: Melts into the orzo for a nutty, umami-laden finish.
- Lemon zest: Packs a punch of citrus perfume without overwhelming sourness.
- Lemon juice: The fresh squeeze brightens and balances the creamy textures.
- Baby spinach: Adds a burst of color and earthy flavor; wilts beautifully into the pan.
- Fresh parsley: A scattering at the end for herby freshness and lovely flecks of green.
- Lemon wedges: Perfect for serving, letting everyone give their plate an extra hit of zing.
How to Make One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Step 1: Season and Sear the Salmon
Start by patting your salmon fillets dry and generously seasoning them with salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and lay the salmon in, skin-side down if it has skin. Let it sizzle undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until it’s golden and just about cooked through. Carefully remove the fillets and set them aside on a plate—don’t worry, they’ll finish cooking in just a bit.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo with Garlic
Using that same skillet (don’t wipe it out—you want every bit of flavor!), reduce the heat to medium and melt in the butter. Toss in your minced garlic and let it bubble away for about 30 seconds, just long enough to become fragrant. Add the orzo and toast it for a minute or two, stirring gently to coat the grains in all that buttery garlicky goodness. This step adds another layer of flavor you’ll absolutely notice in the finished dish.
Step 3: Simmer the Orzo
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, along with the remaining salt and black pepper. Give everything a quick stir and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let the orzo cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring now and then, until it’s tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. The orzo should be creamy but not soupy, and oh-so inviting.
Step 4: Finish with Cream, Cheese, and Lemon
Once your orzo has softened, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Watch as the sauce comes together and wraps around each grain, turning everything silky and aromatic. Add the spinach and toss until it’s just wilted. You’ll see a beautiful green pop against the creamy orzo—this is when the kitchen starts to smell truly irresistible.
Step 5: Nestle Salmon Back In
Gently return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo and sauce. Let everything cook together on medium-low heat for 2 to 3 more minutes, or just until the salmon is fully cooked through and piping hot. Scatter fresh parsley over the top, slide a few lemon wedges onto the plate, and your One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo
Garnishes
A flourish of chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a lovely herbal lift right at the finish. Lemon wedges on the side let each diner adjust the citrus brightness to their liking, bringing out the best in both the salmon and the creamy orzo. For extra flair, you can grate a bit more Parmesan over the top just before serving.
Side Dishes
While One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo can easily stand alone, you can elevate your meal by serving it with a crisp green salad or some simply roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. For something even more Mediterranean, try warm crusty bread to mop up the last bits of creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile the orzo in shallow bowls and top each with a salmon fillet, finishing with extra lemon zest for a restaurant-worthy look. Or, present the whole skillet right at the table family-style, encouraging everyone to scoop out their portion. If you want to get fancy, garnish with edible flowers or a swirl of extra olive oil for that final chef’s kiss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, simply transfer the cooled One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The orzo may thicken as it sits, but a splash of broth or cream will bring it right back to life.
Freezing
For best texture, it’s ideal to enjoy this dish fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. Wrap the salmon and orzo tightly in freezer-safe containers. When reheated, the spinach and orzo may become a bit softer, but the flavor remains fabulous. Aim to enjoy frozen portions within a month.
Reheating
To reheat, place the One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of cream or broth. Gently warm everything through, stirring the orzo and occasionally spooning sauce over the salmon. You can also use the microwave for convenience, just cover the dish and heat in 1-minute intervals.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While salmon is the star, you can substitute with thick white fish fillets like cod or halibut, or even shrimp or chicken for a different take on this one-skillet recipe. Just adjust the cooking times as needed.
Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap out the heavy cream and Parmesan for your favorite dairy-free alternatives. Choose an unsweetened plant-based cream and a vegan cheese that melts well, and you’ll still get plenty of lusciousness without the dairy.
What can I use instead of orzo?
If you can’t find orzo, try using small pasta shapes like pearl couscous or even rice. You’ll need to adjust the liquid amounts and simmer time a bit, but the outcome will still be delicious and satisfying.
How do I make the flavor extra lemony?
For a truly zesty experience, add more lemon zest or an extra squeeze of juice at the end, and consider garnishing with thinly sliced lemon rounds. The lemon keeps the whole dish feeling fresh and light.
Can I prepare One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo ahead of time?
While this dish tastes best when freshly cooked, you can prep some components ahead, like mincing garlic or zesting the lemon. The full dish can be gently reheated, but for perfect salmon, try to make it fresh when possible.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo a try—whether it’s your first go or your fiftieth. It’s a delightful harmony of creamy, citrusy, and savory flavors, all in a single pan. Gather your favorite people, set the table, and get ready for a meal that’s as memorable as it is effortless to make!
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One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One-Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is a delectable and satisfying dish that combines tender salmon fillets with creamy orzo pasta, bright lemon flavors, and hearty spinach. A perfect blend of flavors and textures in one skillet!
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Orzo:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Season Salmon: Season salmon fillets with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Sear Salmon: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear salmon for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare Orzo: Melt butter in the skillet, add garlic, then stir in orzo to toast. Pour in broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Finish Dish: Stir in cream, Parmesan, lemon zest, and juice. Add spinach, then return salmon to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until salmon is cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- You can substitute shrimp or chicken for the salmon.
- To enhance orzo’s flavor, toast it before adding liquid.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with orzo
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
